Things To Know Before Buying A Bichon Frise

Things To Know Before Buying A Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is a cuddly toy of a dog with black eyes and a white fluffy coat – a very cheerful, happy dog that likes to please. If socialised early on, your Bichon Frise will get on well with everyone and everything, including other pets. However, if you’re thinking of buying one for the first time, we are going to look into some of the things you may want to consider before purchasing, to see if this is the right breed for you.

The Bichon Frise does make a wonderful family pet, due to the fact it is a very playful breed and generally gets on well with everyone. Having said that, they don’t like to be left alone for too long as they may suffer anxiety and separation issues. If you are in a household where you will be gone for many hours, then this breed may not be for you, unless you can make sure they have some company while you are out. Many owners usually have a second dog, or you could get a dog sitter for those days when your Bichon Frise will be alone.

Another great thing about this particular breed is they don’t shed like other breeds, and are often recommended for people with allergies. However, you will have to cut and groom its coat regularly as they have a double coat, (an under coat and an outer coat), which makes up the soft but fluffy texture and this under coat can often get matted and tangled. Many owners have their Bichon professionally groomed, cut, brushed, and bathed about every six weeks, because it can be too difficult and time consuming unless you’re very experienced.

Being a small dog weighing in at only between 7 and 12 pounds, and standing only 9 to 11 inches, they don’t require a lot of room, and do well in apartments, although they still love the exercise the outdoors can give. They also don’t need a lot of food, for instance, a full grown adult Bichon may only eat 2 cups a day at most, some even less. Having said that, each dog is an individual and you should get a full check up with your vet as soon as you get your new puppy Bichon. Moreover, your vet can instruct you on what type of diet to feed your Bichon, and how much will suit your particular puppy or dog.

It is important to visit the vet, firstly as soon as you acquire a new puppy, and also to follow up with regular checkups and vaccinations. Also, because the Bichon breed is prone to many health conditions it is highly recommended that you shop around until you find a reputable breeder, who can verify that many health conditions are not present in the lineage of the parents and grandparents. Another reason to visit the vet regularly is to make sure your dog is up to date on all preventative medications, and you should of course always make sure that it takes medications as instructed by your vet.

Obedience training should be part of the Bichon’s regime, because they are cunning as well as intelligent, and you want to maximise its abilities and training. Bear in mind that Bichon Frise puppies can be extremely difficult to house train, and many will recommend the crate training method is used Now, even if you don’t like this method, if you stick with it, the time and effort will be worth it in the end. Where possible many owners also have a dog flap in a back door that leads out to the garden, to make it a little easier for when your Bichon wants to relieve itself.

As with many small breeds, there are a number of health issues, and this breed is no exception. These can include having bladder problems like stones, to infections and allergies. Some conditions can’t be avoided, while others can be prevented, and yet others will just depend on the individual dog, which is why it is so important to buy from a well known and reputable breeder with good qualifications and testing traits, as well as scheduling regular checkups at your vet.

Other health problems include Hip Dysplasia where the thigh bone does not fit correctly into the joint, Patellar Luxation where the kneecap keeps slipping out of place and Juvenile Cataracts, which can develop in young Bichons. Some conditions are hereditary, and are usually tested for genetically by a good breeder, whereas pet shops and back street breeders do not always take such precautions or have this information. Being aware of the possible conditions, and following good, professional advice can keep you ahead of any problems you may find buying elsewhere.

Finally, the Bichon Frise is a delightful pet, and can handle noise and commotion from a busy household, so they can fit in to almost anyone’s household. They do get on great with children, although young children should be supervised when playing with small dogs, and they also make great pets for the older generation too. You should also remember to buy a bed, leash, bowls, toys, and food before going to purchase your new puppy, then all you have to do when you get him home is enjoy your Bichon… for many, many years!